Having won the competition entry for Istanbul New Airport, Haptic Architects working in collaboration with Grimshaw Architects and Nordic Office of Architecture were invited to compete for the design of the airport’s first Air Traffic Control Tower.

The proposed design for the 96m tall tower directly responds to its context as well as its functional requirements. The tower consists of a significant block of staff and technical accommodation at its base, along with a prominent air traffic control cab at its head. These two functional elements are connected by an elegant shaft housing the vertical circulation and services. The multiple levels at the base are contained within a clear and efficient circular volume which is partially sunk into the ground. A sunken courtyard provides an attractive garden space for the benefit of all building users and guests. The clear geometries of the base takes reference from the discipline of form and geometry found in the terminal building itself.

The shaft is formed from two massive concrete fin walls, separated by a glazed void. Within this void lifts, stairs and services rise to the top. The transparent slot along the full height of the shaft creates a light and elegant sculptural form, revealing the drama of the tower to the outside and enables far-reaching views across the airport and the black sea.